Northcliffe Golf Club

Junior production line that’s still going strong

From the daunting first hole to the delightful last, Northcliffe is a thoroughly enjoyable course on the outskirts of Shipley.

It dates back to 1921, when a nine-hole course was built, but in the following years those famous early professionals, Harry Varden and James Braid, were involved in the expansion to 18 holes.

The land is held in trust, but as the club’s 999-year lease started in 1999, then Northcliffe should be around for many years to come.

Northcliffe has long had a reputation in Bradford Union circles for producing some of the top golfers in the district and is invariably challenging for Scratch League titles.

Now the club has taken steps to keep the production line going, with its junior section just being awarded the English Golf Union’s Golf Mark standard for developing and encouraging junior golf.

The clubhouse is perched above a ravine with the first tee in front. It might look a long way over to the other side, but a mid iron will get you over safely, although the more courageous golfer could take on the trees as the hole is a dog-leg.

The 18th, pictured right, is one of the prettiest par threes you’ll find. Cut through the wooded ravine to a green which is well guarded by bunkers.

Northcliffe certainly makes a big impression at both start and finish.

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